Middleburg’s Salamander Resort & Spa Opens

September 3, 2013

252 of the resort’s acres will be placed into conservation easement, and be the first resort to achieve LEED certification.

Middleburg, VA (September 3, 2013) – On August 29, one of the most anticipated hospitality projects in Middleburg opened its doors. The only new luxury destination resort in the United States to open in 2013, Salamander Resort & Spa offers a unique blend of equestrian, spa, culinary, winery, nature and historic experiences for its visitors.

Wimberly Allison Tong & Goo (WATG) designed this resort to blend into the surrounding rolling countryside and respect the traditions of Johnson’s own nearby Virginia farm. Architecture Inc. of Reston created 168 luxurious, spacious rooms and suites that far exceed the typical size for a luxury resort. Interior design inspiration was supplied by Thomas Pheasant, and interior design completion was provided by Kent Interior Design of Atlanta.

With a full-service equestrian center and an array of programming that includes riding instruction and clinics from the area’s world-class riders, Salamander Resort & Spa embraces the region’s geographic culture. Equine enthusiast guests even have the opportunity to board their own horses.

Culinary Director Todd Gray, Executive Chef Sean McKee, Chef de Cuisine Chris Edwards and Pastry Chef Jason Reaves are at the helm of the Salamanderdining experience. At Harrimans Grill, which features a soaring 42-foot-high ceiling and enjoys a panoramic view of the Bull Run Mountain Range, the cuisine celebrates Virginia’s Piedmont region, including a robust selection of steaks, chops, fruits and vegetables. TheGold Cup Wine Bar, designed like a winery tasting room with brick floor and wood-beamed ceiling, features flights of wine from around the world and a creative menu that offers small plates inspired by the Italian Piedmont.

The Salamander Equestrian Program features 22-stalls, practice ring, riding trails and instructional classes. The resort is center to over 400 annual equestrian-related activities, including steeplechases, polo events, and some of the country’s most celebrated horse shows.

There are over 50 wineries located within a 60-minute drive and the closest is only two minutes away from the resort’s front doors. Area winemakers will regularly offer tastings at the resort, while private vineyards tours can be arranged for guests, who can enjoy country picnic baskets filled with fresh, farm-to-table cuisine from the resort’s kitchen.

The resort features an array of facilities designed with corporate and association meetings in mind, as well as social functions and destination weddings. This includes the 5,000-square-foot Middleburg Grand Ballroom, the exquisite Hamilton Boardroom, and a variety of stone courtyards with stunning views.

Resort Owner Sheila C. Johnson has created an environmentally sensitive destination by placing 252 of the resort’s acres into a conservation easement, and when the property opens, it will be one of the first luxury destination resort and spas in the United States to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.

Rates during peak season at Salamander Resort & Spa range from $425 to $575 per night for a deluxe guest room, depending on views and availability. Non-peak season rates begin at $275 per night. Suite pricing ranges from $775 to $3,500 per night. Special packages, group rates and creative teambuilding options are also available. Salamander Resort & Spa is a member of the prestigious Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection.

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Hi! I'm Michael. I’m a communications, public relations, sales and marketing expert living in Washington, DC. I share "stories of success" for various industries including luxury retail, skincare, healthcare, education and entertainment. I've presented on digital story telling for the hospitality industry and American Indian Affairs.